I pulled out the import of The Damned's "Black Album" yesterday (and today). My first copy was a promo on IRS Records that a local DJ probably cashed in for a Weideman!! The import is closer in execution to the obvious comparison of the Beatles "White Album".
The import has the side-long "Curtain Call" which was worth whatever I paid for it in the 80's. The fourth side is inspired live Paul Gray era tracks from "Damned, Damned, Damned" and "Machine Gun Etiquette."
"Black Album" solidifies the argument I heard in a documentary awhile back that Captain Sensible is the "Jimi Hendrix" of punk rock. While I like Brian James, the Captain is the true guitar hero of the band. Every member fires on all cylinders for this album. The bounce of the bass. The thunder of the drums. The mystery and menace in Vanian's voice.
I remember a contemporary Trouser Press reviewer saying it reminded him of a Moody Blues album!! In truth, it was the ultimate psychedelic punk fusion LP.